Royal Air Force Hawk T.2

The Hawk T.2 recently replaced the Hawk T.1 in service with the Royal Air Force Advanced Fast Jet Training unit, now 4(R) Squadron at RAF Valley. The aircraft has revolutionised the way future fast jet pilots are trained and with advanced avionics that include a Hands-On Throttle and Stick (HOTAS) system, it offers a much better platform to prepare them for front line types such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II. RAF student pilots receive their flying brevet, or 'wings', upon conclusion of the Basic Fast Jet Training course on the Tucano T.1 at RAF Linton-on-Ouse and then move to Valley where they first learn to fly the Hawk before operating it in more complex tactical scenarios towards the end of the course.